In New York, walking is a way of life. Walking is a major form of transportation for New Yorkers, and if you choose to travel by foot, you have the right to do so safely and without the fear of unnecessary risks. When pedestrians suffer injury in accidents involving hazards or other vehicles, they may not know where to turn for answers regarding their legal rights and options.
If you suffered injuries while you were walking in New York, you will find it beneficial to seek the opinion of an attorney who will not only provide information regarding a potential civil claim, but one who will tenaciously advocate for a full and fair recovery.
What makes walking so dangerous?
One of the main reasons that walking can be rather dangerous is the fact that when you are walking, you are completely unprotected against the impact of a vehicle. When pedestrian accidents involve cars, it is usually because of one of the following factors:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Disregard for crosswalks or traffic signals
While vehicle-pedestrian accidents are extremely serious and can have detrimental consequences, it is not the only reason that pedestrians may be in danger. Other common risk factors and reasons for injuries include:
- Trips on uneven or cracked sidewalks
- Trip-and-fall accidents
- Wildlife or animal attacks
- Falls due to holes
For the two decades preceding 2012, the number of pedestrian accidents was on a downward trend. In 2012, however, that number increased and is consistently holding at approximately 5,000 accidents annually. While it is impossible to determine exactly what caused this increase, pedestrians would be wise to know their rights and to take quick action in the event that they are involved in an accident that left them injured.
The appropriate steps after an accident
Research suggests that only a small number of all pedestrian accidents are ever reported to law enforcement. If you find yourself injured due to a fall or other type of accident that happened as you were walking throughout the city, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. With the right help, it is not only possible to identify the liable parties, but also to secure compensation for your pain and suffering.
A serious accident can impact your life in many ways. Even if you are unsure of what factors played a role in what happened or who may be to blame, you have the right to know your options and find out if you have grounds for a civil claim.